The Capybara Cafe: A Unique Animal Encounter in St. Augustine
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — Nestled behind a real estate office in the historic city, The Capybara Cafe has quickly become a popular destination for animal enthusiasts eager to connect with some of today’s most beloved creatures—the capybaras.
Avenue for Interaction
Since its opening in October 2023, this enticing venue allows visitors to engage with capybaras, known for their gentle nature. Under the guidance of operator Stephanie Angel, guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where these large furry rodents can be fed, cuddled, and scratched. “You give them lots of scratches and love,” explained Angel, who aims to help the capybaras feel so comfortable that they might even fall asleep in your lap.
Experience the Connection
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted in a cozy reception area featuring couches and an interactive pen with baby chicks. Groups of up to six guests are then escorted into a small room where three capybaras make their entrance along with other curious animals such as a skunk, wallaby, and armadillo. The experience lasts either half an hour for $49 or an hour for $99, allowing guests ample time to bond with both the capybaras and the other animals.
Leah Macri, who traveled from Orlando with her daughter, shared her initial impressions: “Their fur kind of feels like straw a bit.” Many visitors like Macri find themselves enchanted by multiple encounters, noting how friendly and affectionate the animals are.
Capybaras: The Latest ‘It’ Animals
The capybara, a South American relative of the guinea pig, has captured the attention of the public and become part of the cultural zeitgeist. Last holiday season, there was a surge in capybara-themed merchandise, including slippers and bath bombs. These playful animals can grow over four feet long and weigh more than 100 pounds, making them quite a remarkable sight.
More Than Just a Cafe
While the name might suggest a focus on food and beverages, The Capybara Cafe does not serve coffee or meals. Instead, it offers a range of capybara-themed merchandise alongside its unique animal experiences. The cafe is also a support initiative for Noah’s Ark Sanctuary Inc., an animal refuge that aims to provide proper care for abandoned and neglected animals.
Future Expansion Plans
Given the overwhelming popularity of this intimate animal encounter, Angel has plans to expand by opening another location in St. Petersburg, Florida, further broadening access to these delightful creatures.
Conclusion
Visitors leave The Capybara Cafe not only with memories of their time spent with capybaras and other animals but also with an understanding of the importance of animal welfare and refuge initiatives. As Chris Cooper, who traveled over 150 miles for his visit, remarked, “I wasn’t expecting how affectionate they were. They enjoyed the hands-on rubs.”
